Summary:
What is the GravelMan?
Specifics of the Anjou GravelMan
Mandatory bike equipment
Mandatory clothing
Recommended additional equipment
Conclusion
What is the GravelMan?
The GravelMan is a series of self-supported cycling events taking place in different regions of France. Unlike a classic cycling race, participants are challenged to ride without assistance, without technical support, and without organized refuelling points. Each cyclist follows a GPS track and manages their entire adventure alone: food, hydration, mechanical repairs, breaks, and route planning.
Such autonomy makes preparation for the GravelMan particularly important. Beyond the bike itself, it is essential to plan appropriate clothing, water and food reserves, as well as all the necessary equipment to manage small breakdowns and continue the journey safely.
The GravelMan regulations specify a list of mandatory equipment that each participant must carry. Each item is the result of experience gained on long, self-supported distances and serves a simple purpose: to allow riders to continue cycling safely despite changing weather or unexpected mechanical issues.
The experts at Routes and Roads have analyzed these requirements to explain their usefulness and the key points to check before departure. In our store and workshop, you will find everything you need to complete your equipment, as well as to prepare your bike for the event. Our workshop and advisory teams take care of your bike with the same demanding standards as if it were their own.
Specifics of the Anjou GravelMan
The Anjou GravelMan crosses the roads and paths of Anjou in the heart of Maine-et-Loire. The route alternates between asphalt, gravel, forest trails, and rural roads. The course does not feature any major passes but consists of many short, demanding climbs and descents that add up over time. Good physical condition is therefore essential to cover the distance.
The event takes place in September. Temperatures can drop below 10 °C in the early morning before reaching 20 °C during the day. Participants must also be prepared to face rain, wind, or even to ride for several hours at dusk, or even at night. Both clothing and equipment must therefore be able to adapt to very varied conditions.
The Anjou GravelMan takes place on the roads of the Anjou region
Mandatory bike equipment
Front and rear lights
Front and rear lights are mandatory, regardless of the chosen distance. A power of 200 lumens is the minimum for the main light. Even with an expected daytime arrival, a delay due to weather, a repair, or fatigue can force riding in the dark. Organizers also recommend carrying a headlamp, which is particularly useful for repairing your bike or easily finding your equipment after dark.
Bicycle pump
The pump is mandatory, even if the participant uses tubeless tires. Sealant alone is not enough to plug all punctures, and it must always be possible to reinflate on the trail.
Repair kit
The basic kit includes tire levers, patches, and glue to repair an inner tube. Even a simple puncture can end the event if the participant cannot perform the repair themselves.
A bike pump, inner tube, and repair kit are part of the mandatory equipment
Spare inner tube
Organizers require carrying at least one spare inner tube and recommend bringing two. Even with tubeless tires, an inner tube remains essential when a puncture cannot be repaired with sealant.
Survival blanket
Compact and very lightweight, a survival blanket takes up very little space and helps retain warmth in case of a prolonged stop, discomfort, or waiting for help. It is one of the mandatory pieces of equipment for a self-supported event.
Mobile phone
Essential for navigation, communication with organizers, and emergency calls. Before departure, make sure it is fully charged and bring its charging cable. For long distances, a power bank of 5,000 to 10,000 mAh is also recommended.
Water and provisions
Each participant must carry a minimum of 1.5 liters of water. Organizers also recommend having 1000 calories of food reserves. Even if the route passes through villages where it is possible to resupply, it is better not to rely solely on shops and cafes.
It is essential to carry a water reserve
Whistle
Simple yet effective, it allows you to quickly alert people nearby in case of an emergency. The sound of a whistle is clearly audible, even in strong winds or from a good distance.
Mandatory clothing
Waterproof jacket
A compact waterproof jacket with a hood, made with a technical membrane, is among the mandatory clothing items. It effectively protects against rain and wind without taking up much space in your bags. Its recommended characteristics: waterproofing of at least 10,000 Schmerber and breathability with a RET index below 13. If the jacket is without a hood, a headband and cap are allowed by the organizers.
Cold-resistant clothing
Even in September, temperatures can be cool at the start, and the weather can change rapidly throughout the day. An additional thermal layer provides comfort during breaks, prolonged descents, or when the weather deteriorates.
Reflective clothing
A reflective vest or any other reflective clothing significantly improves cyclist visibility at dusk, at night, or in low light conditions.
Reflective elements on clothing make you visible at dusk
Warm gloves
In the morning and evening, hands are particularly sensitive to cold. A pair of warm gloves helps maintain good dexterity, ensures a firm grip on the handlebars, and allows for good control of the bike.
Helmet
A helmet is mandatory for all distances. Before departure, take the time to check that it is properly adjusted and remains perfectly stable.
Glasses
Glasses protect the eyes from sun, wind, dust, insects, and gravel splashes. For a long-distance event, photochromic or interchangeable lens models offer the best versatility regardless of lighting conditions.
Reliable sunglasses are essential for any outing
Recommended additional equipment
The organizers' list covers the essential needs for participating in the GravelMan safely. However, experienced participants often supplement it with a few useful accessories. Compact, they can make all the difference in a long, self-supported event.
Multi-tool
Although not included in the mandatory equipment list, the multi-tool is considered indispensable by Routes and Roads mechanics. It allows for quick tightening of a loose screw, adjusting the handlebar or saddle position, and performing most small repairs on the trail.
Multifunctional neck gaiter
Lightweight and compact, a multifunctional neck gaiter can serve as a scarf, headband, or additional protection against wind and sun.
Mini first-aid kit
A small kit containing a few bandages, antiseptic wipes, an elastic bandage, and pain medication allows for quick treatment of superficial injuries and resuming the journey without discomfort.
A chain lubricant and a compact maintenance kit will be very useful
Chain lubricant
After several kilometers in the rain or on dusty gravel, the drivetrain may lose fluidity. A small bottle of lubricant allows for quick restoration of smooth operation and limits chain wear.
Anti-chafing cream
Over distances of more than 200 kilometers, even high-quality cycling shorts do not always protect against discomfort. A specific cream reduces friction, helps prevent skin irritation, and makes the ride much more comfortable.
Conclusion
Preparation for the Anjou GravelMan begins long before the start date. Mandatory equipment and appropriate clothing not only comply with the event regulations but, more importantly, allow you to approach the course with greater peace of mind, regardless of the weather and chosen distance.
Before departure, remember to consult the current regulations and double-check that all mandatory equipment is ready. And if you need advice on choosing your equipment or preparing your bike, the experts at Routes and Roads are at your disposal to help you select the most suitable gear to tackle the Anjou GravelMan in the best possible conditions of comfort and safety.
